Sports
What is the Link Between Physical Activity and Academic Performance?
Research shows that physical activity and sports involvement not only have a positive influence on memory, concentration in education, learning efficiency, academic achievement, and grades, they also enhance students' "attitude towards positive behaviors, self-discipline, mental alertness, and help them grow into a more confident individual" (Montecalbo-Ignacio et al., 2017 & Young-Jones et al., 2022).
How can university students manage physical activity with their studies?
- Prioritize physical activities as you would academic activities.
- Consider movement breaks for 5-10min. Take advantage of breaks between classes or study sessions to walk (preferably outdoors), stretch, etc.. and reduce sedentary time.
- Allocate time in your schedule for regular and moderate physical activities (at least 30 minutes, 2-3 times per week).
- Choose activities you enjoy (jogging, dancing, swimming, yoga, etc...). When you engage in activities you like, you'll be more motivated to make time for them.
- Join university clubs or sports teams, which not only helps you stay active but also provides an opportunity to socialize and meet like-minded individuals.
- Incorporate active commuting. If possible, consider walking or cycling to your classes.
- Make use of campus facilities such as fitness centers, sports facilities, or recreational areas.
- Set achievable goals that align with your schedule and workload.
- Engage in physical activities with classmates: study group walks, yoga sessions, etc. Combining physical activity with social interaction can make it more enjoyable and keeps you motivated.
- Be flexible: During busy periods like exams and deadlines, adjust your physical activity routine accordingly.
- Prioritize self-care: Remember that physical activity is not just beneficial for your physical health; it also improves mental well-being and cognitive function. and you'll be better equipped to handle the demands of university life.
Finding a balance between academic chores and physical activity is essential.
Sports/Recreational Facilities for HBKU Students
- Recreation Centre
- Education City Club House
- Awsaj Recreation
- Multaqa
- Education City Football Stadium
- Oxygen Park
You may refer to Education City App for locations and events: iOS & Android
References
Committee on Physical Activity and Physical Education in the School Environment, Food and Nutrition Board, & Institute of Medicine. (2013). Physical Activity, Fitness, and Physical Education: Effects on Academic Performance. In H. W. I. I. I. Kohl, & H. D. Cook (Eds.), Educating the Student Body: Taking Physical Activity and Physical Education to School (pp. 161-196). National Academies Press (US). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK201501/
Howie, E. K., & Pate, R. R. (2012). Physical activity and academic achievement in children: A historical perspective. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 1(3), 160-169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2012.09.003
Montecalbo-Ignacio, R. C., Rodolfo A. Ignacio III, & Buot, M. M. (2017). Academic Achievement as Influenced by Sports Participation in Selected Universities in the Philippines. Education, 7(3), 53-57. http://article.sapub.org/10.5923.j.edu.20170703.03.html
Redondo-Flórez, L., Ramos-Campo, D. J., & Clemente-Suárez, V. J. (2022). Relationship between physical fitness and academic performance in university students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(22), 14750. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192214750
Young-Jones, A., McCain, ., Hart, B. (2022). Let's take a break: The impact of physical activity on academic motivation. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 33(2): 110-118. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1345538